Buckle Up, Ready or Not

The rude truth about death is that we cannot check our calendar to see when it will be the most convenient. "This Thursday? Let me see. No, that won't work! I have a hair appointment, and after that Mary has piano." Death seems to come at the most inconvenient time. Death interrupts schedules, delays plans, or in many cases erases them completely.

Sudden deaths bring shock and confusion. Everyone is caught off guard. There is not much time to think about everything that has to be done. Long drawn out deaths may be the hardest for the survivors. The departure of that loved one is immanent, but still the death bed vigil may be longer than anyone expected. I have watched many families go through this agonizing process. Most family members wait patiently while others can't handle the waiting. "Mom, Dad, why don't you hurry up and die? I've got things I need to do.. I just can't handle this!" The inconvenience and stress of death brings varied emotions and actions. The uncertainty of the time of our death can be very perplexing. So we had rather not think about it.

Are we ready for the death experience? Buckle up! All of us have a ticket for this ride like it or not. We just don't know the date of departure. We hope the ride is delayed. Since we have no way of knowing the time, it is essential that we have our bags packed for that eternity train. We are always on standby.